From Figma to Function: Why Design Is More Than Just Pretty Screens

At Bad Dino, we think of design as more than just a phase, it’s the foundation. It’s where we define how an app works, not just how it looks. Before we write a single line of code, we focus in on the experience we’re creating: How will users move through it? What will feel intuitive? What’s the best pathway for users?

We believe the best apps feel effortless to use - but that kind of effortlessness is carefully designed. Every interaction, click, decision point, and screen flow is intentional.

To show you what that means in real life, we grabbed our designer Valentin for a few quickfire questions. Their answers give a glimpse into the way we approach product design; not just the visuals, but the way your app thinks.

🧠 What inspires your design work the most?

“I explore and test a lot of apps to understand how they work and why they’re built a certain way. I also benchmark constantly—Dribbble, Muzli, anywhere I can see what’s trending and what’s working. It’s about seeing what’s out there and asking, ‘Why does this feel good to use?’”

Design, to us, starts with curiosity. Great UX isn't about doing what's trendy—it’s about understanding what works and why.

🧩 What’s the one tool you can’t live without?

“Figma! I can design, prototype, test flows—it’s where ideas become real. In my daily life? Discord. It helps me stay connected with friends and the team.”

Figma isn’t just for mock-ups - it’s how we create the look and feel of the app. It’s where we figure out whether users can get from A to B without friction. That’s the heart of our design process: making the invisible parts of your product work better.

🚫 Biggest design pet peeve?

(Still thinking… probably confusing user flows or buttons that don’t do what you expect.)

Because here’s the truth: users won’t stick around to figure it out. If something’s unclear, they’re gone.

🏥 Most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

“Parkinson’s On and Nottingham Children’s Hospital. It’s inspiring to think that our work could help people with real health issues live better lives.”

When designing for health, clarity and usability is a non-negotiable. There’s no room for fluff - just solid, thoughtful, human-centred design.

👂 One piece of advice to new designers?

“Never take feedback personally. It’s not judging you—it’s helping you grow. The best designers listen, learn, and improve constantly.”

That mindset is baked into how we work with clients, too. We ask questions. We test early. We’re not precious. We want the app to work for the user, not just look nice in a screenshot.

🍺 If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

“Mountain guide or sports teacher… or I’d open my own brewery.”

Designing flows… or pouring beers. Honestly, both require craft and instinct.

Building something real? Let’s make it make sense—for your users, and your business.

Just drop us a message and we’ll show you how we do it.